WHY IS SLEEP IMPORTANT? Sleep plays an important role in your physical health. For example, sleep is involved in healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels. Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Sleep deficiency also increases the risk of obesity. Sleep supports healthy growth and development of mind and body. Deep sleep triggers the body to release the hormone that promotes normal growth in children and teens. This hormone also boosts muscle mass and helps repair cells and tissues in children, teens, and adults. Sleep also plays a role in puberty and fertility. Your immune system relies on sleep to stay healthy. This system defends your body against foreign or harmful substances. Ongoing sleep deficiency can change the way in which your immune system responds. For example, if you're sleep deficient, you may have trouble fighting common infections. HOW MANY HOURS OF SLEEP DO YOU NEED? Just because you’re able to operate on six hours of sleep doesn’t mean you would get more done. In reality, though, it’s a recipe for chronic sleep deprivation. Most healthy adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to function at their best. So investing in your own sleep is the best thing you can do for your overall health and well being. In the long term, proper sleep will boost your daily productivity and energy. Happy sleeping ❤️